Gary Eugene Van Deventer

Gary Eugene Van Deventer, 79, went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, March 22, 2016 surrounded by his loved ones. His love and devotion to God gave him peace through difficulty, as he rejoiced as the thought of meeting his Savior. He was born on September 22, 1936 in Urban, IL to Prentice and Mignon Van Deventer. He was the oldest of 3 children. He married his high school sweetheart, Shirley, on August 29, 1959, and they had three children.

He proudly served his country in the United States Army, where he was stationed in both Texas and Germany. After thirty years of loyal service, he retired from the City of Cocoa. His love for the lord and passion for music guided him to form several gospel singing groups that toured at surrounding community churches. He also served the lord through his ministry as an ordained pastor at Merritt Island Wesleyan Church for ten years.

Gary loved his family, politics, sports, and corny jokes. He was very social, enjoyed meeting people and sharing stories with anyone he met. He was especially known for his love of gospel music, including song writing, playing trumpet and piano, singing, and recording music. He continued recording music for an array of musicians he had befriended over the years until his parting.

Gary is survived by his beloved wife, Shirley; sons Tim (Connie) and David; daughter Cheryl Townsend (David); granddaughters Tamara, Meagan, Katie, and Maya; great grandchildren Sloane, Leven, and Kelsey; brother Richard (Jeannie); sister Pat Hall (Gary); many nieces and nephews, and countless friends.

His memory will be with us forever. He will be sadly missed, but we rejoice in our faith of seeing him again in heaven playing and singing one of his favorite tunes "Goodbye World Goodbye" Funeral Services will be held this Friday March 25, 2016 at Brevard Memorial Funeral Home Chapel beginning with visitation at 2:00pm and services to follow at 3:00 pm.